PSG missing players to face Chelsea in the Club World Cup final
Lucas Hernández and Willian Pacho suspended; Beraldo and Nuno Mendes expected to start
Paris Saint-Germain will be without two crucial pieces of their backline when they face Chelsea in the Club World Cup final this Sunday (13), at 4 PM (Brasília time) at MetLife Stadium, New Jersey.
Suspensions: Lucas Hernández and Willian Pacho Out
Defender Willian Pacho and left-back Lucas Hernández are officially ruled out of the final due to suspensions. Both players received red cards in PSG’s quarterfinal clash against Bayern Munich and were handed two-match bans, causing them to miss the semifinal victory over Real Madrid and now the decisive clash against Chelsea.
Players Released, Return to France Confirmed
Following the confirmation of their suspensions, PSG released both players, allowing them to return early to France. The club issued a statement:
“In agreement with the sporting directors and the team, **Lucas Hernández and Willian Pacho suspended for the remainder of the Club World Cup will leave the team today.”
This decision was made jointly by the coaching staff, players, and club management, as neither could feature in the final under any circumstance.
PSG’s Probable Defensive Line
With Pacho out, Lucas Beraldo is expected to partner Marquinhos at center back. On the left, Nuno Mendes remains the starter, with no direct competition due to Hernández’s absence.
Coach Luis Enrique will likely deploy the following defensive setup:
- Goalkeeper: Gianluigi Donnarumma
- Defenders: Achraf Hakimi, Marquinhos, Lucas Beraldo, Nuno Mendes
Another concern is Presnel Kimpembe, who remains doubtful due to a muscle injury. Should he be unavailable, PSG’s defensive depth will be tested against a dynamic Chelsea attack.
Chelsea’s Status: No Suspensions, But One Injury Concern
On the other side, Chelsea enters the final without any suspensions. The only concern is Moisés Caicedo, who picked up a calf and heel strain against Fluminense. Despite finishing that match, his availability remains uncertain. Andrey Santos is the likely replacement should Caicedo be ruled out.
Route to the Final & Historical Context
- PSG’s Path: Beat Inter Miami, Bayern Munich, and Real Madrid
- Chelsea’s Path: Beat Fluminense 2-0 in the semifinals
- History: This is PSG’s first-ever Club World Cup final, while Chelsea are appearing for the third time, with one win (2022) and one loss (2012).
Luis Enrique: “We Want to Make History”
Following the dominant semifinal win over Real Madrid, Luis Enrique emphasized the club’s ambition:
“It’s a special moment for us, for Parisians, for all the fans. We did a great job and played an incredible match. We want to win this final to cap off an amazing season.”
Where to Watch
The final will be broadcast:
- Live on CazéTV
- Free on Disney+ (Brazil)
